US20040006314A1 - Syringe with retractable needle assembly - Google Patents
Syringe with retractable needle assembly Download PDFInfo
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- US20040006314A1 US20040006314A1 US10/345,901 US34590103A US2004006314A1 US 20040006314 A1 US20040006314 A1 US 20040006314A1 US 34590103 A US34590103 A US 34590103A US 2004006314 A1 US2004006314 A1 US 2004006314A1
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- Prior art keywords
- hollow body
- syringe
- assembly
- needle assembly
- needle
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- 0 C1CC*CC1 Chemical compound C1CC*CC1 0.000 description 1
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
- A61M5/3205—Apparatus for removing or disposing of used needles or syringes, e.g. containers; Means for protection against accidental injuries from used needles
- A61M5/321—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles
- A61M5/322—Retractable needles, i.e. disconnected from and withdrawn into the syringe barrel by the piston
- A61M5/3234—Fully automatic needle retraction, i.e. in which triggering of the needle does not require a deliberate action by the user
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/178—Syringes
- A61M5/31—Details
- A61M5/32—Needles; Details of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hub; Accessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the body; Devices for protection of needles
- A61M5/3205—Apparatus for removing or disposing of used needles or syringes, e.g. containers; Means for protection against accidental injuries from used needles
- A61M5/321—Means for protection against accidental injuries by used needles
- A61M5/322—Retractable needles, i.e. disconnected from and withdrawn into the syringe barrel by the piston
- A61M5/3234—Fully automatic needle retraction, i.e. in which triggering of the needle does not require a deliberate action by the user
- A61M2005/3241—Needle retraction energy is accumulated inside of a hollow plunger rod
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Anesthesiology (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This is a continuation of PCT application PCT/US00/33897, filed Dec. 13, 2000, designating the United States, which claims continuation in part priority from PC/US99/29541, filed Dec. 13, 1999, designating the United States, the disclosures of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- The field of the present invention relates generally to apparatus for protection against an accidental sharps injury or stick from an unprotected needle.
- For some time, the art has recognized the desirability of protecting personnel from accidental sharps injuries or needle sticks. More recently, concerns have been expressed about the possibility of transmitting serious or potentially fatal infection as a result of such accidents. Most recently, legislation requiring the use of safe needle technology is pending in a number of States and before the Occupation Safety and Health Administration. Although, the art has recognized the desirability of protecting against accidental sharps injuries or needle sticks, it is believed that practical protective devices are still not available.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,209,739 discloses a hypodermic needle assembly and a syringe, both having a retractable cannula. An elastomeric tube is connected between the cannula and the passage to the fluid chamber. In each of the embodiments, a separate mechanical device must be independently operated by the user to cause retraction of the cannula into a second compartment. Since the fluid must travel through the elastomeric tube to bypass the second compartment, there is a potential risk of injecting air directly into the patient if the elastomeric tube breaks.
- European Patent No. 0 862 A1 discloses a device in which a needle is retracted into the syringe. In several of the embodiments, the device requires the user to independently operate a mechanical device to cause retraction of the needle. In the one embodiment which utilizes an elastic member, the elastic member is not preloaded and requires the user to depress the plunger to load the elastic member and thereafter continue to apply pressure on the plunger to avoid premature withdrawal of the plunger. As such, the device requires two hands for its operation.
- Various methods of providing a preloaded retraction assembly which permit one hand operation are disclosed in co-owned PCT Application No. PCT/US97/20646, International Publication No. WO 98/20923. While these devices operate successfully, it has been found that the devices may have a somewhat reduced shelf life since the retraction member remains in a tensioned, preloaded condition.
- Other devices which allow the retraction member to be loaded by the user have been introduced. However, these devices generally require a complicated or non-routine procedure to accomplish such. The further a device is from routine operation, the generally less accepted it is by the medical community. Additionally, some of these devices require a mechanical altering of the device which may be difficult to accomplish or may cause deformities which prevent the device from operating properly. See for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,928,200 and 5,836,917.
- Furthermore, many retractable systems employ a geometrically configured retraction member which mates with a geometrically configured member of the needle assembly. A common problem associated with such is the geometrically configured retraction member is forward of the plunger sealing surface and thereby engages and seals the passageway through the needle assembly before all of the fluid is expelled. As a result, pressure builds in the syringe body. As the needle assembly retracts, a fluid passage opens and the pressurized fluid is ejected therefrom.
- Another concern with prior art devices is the complicated and costly manufacturing processes. With the tremendous number of syringes and other needle devices used by the medical community, any substantial rise in cost of the products is undesirable and generally unacceptable.
- Accordingly, there is a need for a syringe having an automatically retracted used needle assembly that can be used in a conventional manner and does not require elaborate manufacturing.
- The present invention is directed to a syringe. The syringe includes a hollow body, a needle assembly positioned in the hollow body, and a plunger assembly in the hollow body. The needle assembly is retractable with an elastic member.
- In a first separate aspect of the present invention, the syringe is actuated to put the elastic member in tension as the plunger is inserted into the hollow body.
- In a second separate aspect of the present invention, the retraction member attaches to the needle assembly when the plunger is inserted substantially into the hollow body.
- In a third separate aspect of the present invention, tension on the elastic member is released, thereby retracting the needle into the hollow body, after the retraction member attaches to the needle assembly.
- In a fourth separate aspect of the present invention, the retention assembly holds the elastic member in tension prior to retraction as the plunger moves toward the needle assembly.
- In a fifth separate aspect of the present invention, a mandrel seal moves with the retraction member prior to retraction and releasably sealingly engages the retraction member and the plunger frame.
- In a sixth separate aspect of the present invention, the needle seal releasably sealingly engages the needle assembly and one end of the hollow body.
- In a seventh separate aspect of the present invention, the retaining fingers releasably secure the needle assembly at one end of the hollow body.
- In an eighth separate aspect of the present invention, the retaining arms releasably secure the needle seal at one end of the hollow body.
- In a ninth separate aspect of the present invention, it is contemplated that combinations of the foregoing separate aspects may be incorporated into a single embodiment.
- FIG. 1 is an expanded view of a syringe assembly.
- FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of one embodiment of the syringe barrel.
- FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the closed end of the syringe barrel of FIG. 2.
- FIG. 3A is an exploded view of another embodiment of the closed end of the syringe barrel.
- FIG. 4 is a side elevation of one embodiment of the needle assembly.
- FIG. 4A is a side elevation of another embodiment of the needle assembly.
- FIG. 4B is an exploded view of the closed end of another embodiment of the syringe barrel and another embodiment of the needle assembly.
- FIG. 5 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a plunger assembly.
- FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the plunger frame of the plunger assembly of FIG. 5.
- FIG. 6A is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of a plunger assembly.
- FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of part of the plunger assembly of FIG. 6A.
- FIG. 6C is one embodiment of a retraction assembly.
- FIG. 6D is one embodiment of a catch member.
- FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the sealing end of the plunger frame of FIG. 6.
- FIG. 7A is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the sealing end of a plunger frame.
- FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the plunger assembly of FIG. 5.
- FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the first end of the plunger assembly of FIG. 8.
- FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of one embodiment of the mandrel.
- FIG. 10A is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the mandrel and a cross sectional view of the mandrel seal.
- FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of one embodiment of the catch member.
- FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the syringe in an assembled but unused condition.
- FIG. 13 illustrates the syringe of FIG. 12 upon initial substantial depression of the plunger assembly.
- FIG. 14 illustrates the syringe of FIG. 12 after loading of the syringe.
- FIG. 15 illustrates the forward portion of the syringe of FIG. 12 as it is inserted in a patient.
- FIG. 16 illustrates the forward portion of the syringe of FIG. 12 upon substantial injection depression of the plunger assembly.
- FIG. 17 illustrates the forward portion of the syringe of FIG. 12 after the mandrel tip has entered the needle assembly cavity.
- FIG. 18 illustrates the forward portion of the syringe of FIG. 12 upon complete depression of the plunger assembly.
- FIG. 19 illustrates the syringe of FIG. 12 after retraction of the needle.
- FIG. 20 shows the plunger assembly members formed from the first injection mold shot in accordance with the preferred method of manufacture.
- FIG. 21 shows the plunger assembly as formed from the second injection overmold shot in accordance with the preferred method of manufacture.
- The preferred embodiments will be described with reference to drawing figures where like numerals represent like elements throughout.
- With reference to FIG. 1, the syringe assembly8 is comprised generally of the
cap member 10, thesyringe barrel 40, theneedle assembly 70, and theplunger assembly 100. - The
cap member 10 includes an open,mating end 12 and aclosed cone section 14. Themating end 12 is preferably configured to slidingly engage thesyringe barrel 40. Alternatively, themating end 12 may be provided with threads (not shown) which may engage corresponding threads (not shown) on thesyringe barrel 40. Other cap and corresponding barrel configurations are known and may also be employed. Theclosed cone section 14 preferably includes a plurality ofribs 16 which assist gripping of thecap member 10. - Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, one embodiment of the
syringe barrel 40 is comprised of ahollow body portion 42 which has aclosed end 44 and anopen end 54. An external stabilizedgrip member 56 extends from thebody 42 adjacent to, but forward of theopen end 54. Thegrip member 56 may have various configurations, the preferred elliptical configuration being shown. An internalannular shoulder 60 is defined in thehollow body 42 at approximately the same position as thegrip member 56. Theopen end 54 defines anopen cavity 58 rear of the internalannular shoulder 60. An internalannular lip 62 may also be provided adjacent theopen end 54. - The
closed end 44 is defined by atruncated cone 46 which includes a truncating plane having anaperture 48. Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment of thesyringe barrel 40, a retaininggroove 50 is located on the interior of thesyringe barrel 40 at a position adjacent to theclosed end 44. The retaininggroove 50 retains theneedle assembly 70 in position during use as will be described in more detail hereinafter. In one embodiment, theclosed end 44 proximate thetruncated cone 46 has a taper forming a generallyconvex rim 47 and at least oneinternal ramp 52, the functions of which will be described hereinafter. - Referring to FIG. 3A, in another embodiment of the
syringe barrel 40, retainingfingers 51 are attached to the interior of thesyringe barrel 40 at a position adjacent to theclosed end 44. The retainingfingers 51 retain theneedle assembly 70 in position prior to retraction of the needle as will be described in more detail hereinafter. - FIG. 4 depicts one embodiment of the
needle assembly 70. In this embodiment, theneedle assembly 70 is comprised of aneedle 72 which is centrally positioned in theconical projection 74. Theconical projection 74 generally complements the interior of thetruncated cone 46 of thesyringe barrel 40. Immediately adjacent to theprojection 74 is a sealingring 76. Theprojection 74 and the sealingring 76 preferably are formed as a unitary molding, but may be formed as separate components. Theinterior passage 78 of theneedle assembly 70 communicates with thehollow needle 72 and the geometrically configuredcavity 80 extending into the rear surface of theneedle assembly 70. Thecavity 80 preferably has acylinder portion 80 a and ahemispheric socket 80 b which complement the geometrically configuredprobe 176 of the plunger mandrel 170 (shown in FIG. 10). Theneedle assembly 70 is positioned within thesyringe barrel 40 such that theneedle 72 extends through theaperture 48 and the sealingring 76 is positioned in and retained by the retaininggroove 50. Preferably, the sealingring 76 sealingly engages thetruncated cone 46 of thesyringe barrel 40 and theconical projection 74. - FIG. 4A depicts another embodiment of the
needle assembly 70. In this embodiment, theneedle assembly 70 has aneedle seal lip 75 that engages and retains aneedle seal 77. Theneedle seal lip 75 may comprise an annular collar or other surface that retains theneedle seal 77. When theneedle assembly 70 is inserted into thetruncated cone 46 of thesyringe barrel 40, theneedle seal 77 is positioned between and sealingly engages theneedle seal lip 75 and theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40. Alternately, theneedle seal 77 may sealingly engage theconical projection 74 and theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40. To facilitate sealing engagement of theneedle seal 77 with theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40, theclosed end 44 may have a shelf 43 (shown in FIG. 3A) that engages theneedle seal 77. Theneedle seal 77 is preferably annular, and may comprise an O-ring. - Other embodiments of the
syringe barrel 40 and needle assembly are shown in FIG. 4B. In these embodiments, a needle seal 53 (shown in cross-section) is inserted through theaperture 48 at theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40. Theneedle seal 53 is positioned between and sealingly engages theconical projection 74 and thetruncated cone 46. In this embodiment, asmaller end 55 of thetruncated cone 46 opens up to receive theneedle seal 53 and then closes to retain theseal 53 in sealing engagement. To accomplish this opening and closing, thesmaller end 55 of thetruncated cone 46 is comprised of a plurality of retainingarms 57. Afirst end 61 of each retainingarm 57 is attached to alarger end 59 of thetruncated cone 46. The first ends 61 are arranged about the circumference of thelarger end 59. Each of the retainingarms 57 has asecond end 63 that may move between an open position and a closed position when the retainingarms 57 are bent. An area defined by the second ends 63 of the retainingarms 57 while in the closed position is smaller than an area defined by the second ends 63 of the retainingarms 57 while in the open position. The area defined by thearms 57 in the closed position is smaller than a cross-sectional area of theneedle seal 53 so that theneedle seal 53 will not pass out through the aperture. When the needle seal retainer is in the closed position, theneedle seal 53 sealingly engages thetruncated cone 46 and theconical projection 74, and when the needle seal retainer is in the open position, theneedle seal 53 is preferably released from sealing engagement with thetruncated cone 46 and theconical projection 74. Retainingfingers 51 are attached to the interior of thesyringe barrel 40 at a position adjacent to theclosed end 44. The retainingfingers 51 help retain theneedle assembly 70 in position prior to retraction of the needle as will be described in more detail hereinafter. - In all of the embodiments described herein, the
needle assembly 70 is retained in a position that is adjacent to theclosed end 44 of thebarrel 40 by a needle assembly retainer prior to retraction. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the needle assembly retainer comprises the sealingring 76 that is positioned in and retained by the retaininggroove 50. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 4B, the needle assembly retainer comprises the retainingfingers 51. - The retaining
fingers 51 are preferably disposed about the circumference of alarger end 59 of thetruncated cone 46. Afirst end 65 of each of the retainingfingers 51 is connected with thesyringe barrel 40 at a location adjacent to theclosed end 44. The retainingfingers 51 preferably comprise L-shaped members with a retaininglip 67 near asecond end 69. The retainingfingers 51 are bendable between a closed position and an open position. While in the closed position, the second ends 69 of thefingers 51 define an area that is smaller than the area defined by the second ends 69 when they are in the open position. The smaller area defined by thefingers 51 in the closed position is smaller than a cross-sectional area of theneedle assembly 70, such that the needle assembly does not pass through the needle assembly retainer when thefingers 51 are in the closed position. - Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5-11, the
plunger assembly 100 includes aplunger frame 110, aretraction assembly 160, athumb pad 104 and a sealingmember 150. Theplunger frame 110 includes afirst end 114 and a sealingend 130 with a pair of opposed connectingrods 126 extending therebetween. The opposed connectingrods 126 define opposed retraction assembly guide tracks 128. - As shown in FIG. 6, in one embodiment of the plunger frame, the
first end 114 of theplunger frame 110 includes a terminatingplate 116 extending between and bridging the opposed connectingrods 126. An annular thumbpad retaining ring 117 extends about the terminatingplate 116. Additionally, aguide member 118 may extend outward from each connectingrod 126 proximate the terminatingplate 116. Aretention assembly 120 extends inward from the terminatingplate 116 between the opposed connectingrods 126. This embodiment of theretention assembly 120 includes a pair of opposed L-shapedmembers 122, each L-shaped member having ahook 124 extending therefrom. Other retention assemblies which permit inward passage and then retention of a geometrically configured tip are also applicable. - As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, another embodiment of the plunger frame has a retention assembly that comprises a plurality of
retention teeth 103 arranged along a surface of the connectingrods 126 of the plunger assembly, substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongated frame portion of the plunger assembly. - Each component of the
plunger frame 110 is preferably manufactured from polypropylene or glass filled polypropylene. Other materials, including various plastics, may also be used. As described in more detail hereinafter, theplunger frame 110, in addition to components of theretraction assembly 160, is preferably formed as a first shot of a multiple shot injection molding procedure. - As shown in FIG. 7, in one embodiment of the plunger assembly, the sealing
end 130 includes asealing platform 132 extending between the connectingrods 126 and including anapertured cylinder 134 terminating in an aperturedpressure cone seat 138. The apertures are preferably concentric such that a continuous hollowintegral shaft 140 passes through the sealingend 130 from thesealing platform 132 to thepressure cone seat 138. Thehollow shaft 140 is preferably tapered such that the diameter is greater within thesealing platform 132 than within thepressure cone seat 138. Additionally, an internalannular ring 142 extends into thehollow shaft 140 proximate thepressure cone seat 138. An externalannular retaining ring 136 is positioned about the juncture of thecylinder 134 and thepressure cone seat 138. The function of the taper and the internal andexternal rings - As shown in FIG. 7A, in another embodiment of the plunger assembly, the
hollow shaft 140 has afirst end 141 and asecond end 143, wherein thefirst end 141 defines a cross-sectional area that is smaller than a cross-sectional area defined by thesecond end 143. The transition between the smaller and larger cross-sectional areas is depicted to be abrupt, but may alternately be gradual. - Referring to FIG. 8, the
plunger sealing member 150 is positioned about thecylinder 134 and theexternal retaining ring 136 and is maintained in position by theexternal ring 136. The sealingmember 150 includesannular seals narrower portion 156 positioned therebetween. When theplunger assembly 100 is positioned in thesyringe barrel 40,annular seal 152 sealingly engages the inside surface of thehollow body portion 42 with an area of open space about thenarrower portion 156.Annular seal 154 may also sealingly engage thehollow body 142, but may also include a passage to prevent creating a vacuum in thenarrower portion 156. The sealingmember 150 is preferably manufactured from an elastomer. A material found to be suitable is Kraton™ manufactured by Shell Oil. A preferred material is Kraton™ G2706 manufactured by Shell Oil. As will be described in greater detail hereinafter, the sealingmember 150 is preferably overmolded directly in position, but may be manufactured separately and subsequently positioned about thecylinder 134 and retainingring 136. - The
first end 114 ofplunger frame 110 can be utilized with the terminatingplate 116 and nothumb pad 104. However, it is preferable to provide athumb pad 104 about the terminatingplate 116 and retained by the retainingring 117 as shown in FIG. 9. Thethumb pad 104 is also preferably manufactured from an elastomer, preferably Kraton™. As with the sealingmember 150, it is preferable that thethumb pad 104 be overmolded directly in position, but it too may be manufactured separately and subsequently positioned and secured about the terminatingplate 116. - The preferred
retraction assembly 160 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6C, 6D, 8, 10, 10A and 11. Theretraction assembly 160 includes aretraction member 170 defined by a mandrel, acatch member 190 and anelastic member 164. - Referring to FIG. 10, one embodiment of the
mandrel 170 includes a generallycylindrical body 172 with a taperedportion 174 extending from one end and aretraction member anchor 180 extending from the other. The taperedportion 174 terminates in a geometrically configuredprobe 176. A mandrelannular retaining ring 178 extends about thecylindrical body 172 proximate the juncture with the taperedportion 174. Themandrel 170 is releasably secured to the plunger frame by a retention means, which includes the retainingring 178. Themandrel retaining ring 178 preferably is part of themandrel 170 and does not separate from themandrel 170. Theretraction member anchor 180 includes a plurality ofbarbs 182 or the like extending therefrom for retaining theelastic member 164. - In another embodiment of the
mandrel 170, as shown in FIG. 10A, thecylindrical body 172 has agroove 173 and a mandrel seal 171 (a cross-section of which is depicted) is positioned about thegroove 173 between themandrel 170 and thehollow shaft 140. Themandrel seal 171 releasably and sealingly engages themandrel 170 and thehollow shaft 140. Themandrel seal 171 is depicted as an O-ring, but may be of any configuration that releasably and sealingly engages thehollow shaft 140 and themandrel 170. - The
mandrel seal 171 initially is in sealing engagement with themandrel 170 and thefirst end 141 of thehollow shaft 140 and inhibits the passage of fluid therebetween prior to retraction of the needle. The sealing engagement creates holding forces between thehollow shaft 140 and themandrel seal 171, as well as between themandrel seal 171 and themandrel 170. The holding forces inhibit movement of theseal 171 relative to themandrel 170 and relative to thehollow shaft 140, and thus inhibit retraction of the needle. Accordingly, the retention means that releasably secures themandrel 170 to the plunger frame includes themandrel seal 171. - In the smaller-diameter area, the holding force between the
mandrel seal 171 and themandrel 170 is greater than the holding force between themandrel seal 171 and thehollow shaft 140, such that themandrel seal 171 does not move relative to themandrel 170, but instead moves relative to thehollow shaft 140 when themandrel 170 is moved relative to thehollow shaft 140. - The desired distribution of holding forces may provided by various means. Preferably, the
mandrel 170 has anannular groove 173 about the circumference of themandrel 170 and located at a seal position on themandrel 170. Theannular groove 173 is configured so that themandrel seal 171 abuts or fits into thegroove 173 and is held in place on themandrel 170 at the seal position so long as themandrel seal 171 is located in the smaller-area portion of thehollow shaft 140. Once themandrel seal 171 moves from the smaller area to the larger area of thehollow shaft 140, themandrel seal 171 may either remain in thegroove 173 or expand away from thegroove 173, as described in greater detail below. - It is noted that configurations other than a groove may also be employed to retain the mandrel seal fixed with respect to the mandrel. For example, the mandrel seal could be positioned between two annular collars on the mandrel. Additionally, any other non-smooth or irregular surface may be employed to mechanically inhibit movement of the seal relative to the mandrel. Alternately, an adhesive could be used to attach the mandrel seal to the mandrel. The mandrel seal could also be formed as an integral part of the mandrel.
- Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment of the
retraction assembly 160, anannular stop 184 extends about thecylindrical body 172 of themandrel 170 adjacent the end of thehollow shaft 140. Thestop 184 is preferably elastomeric and therefore is preferably formed in conjunction with theelastic member 164. - Referring to FIGS. 5 and 11, one embodiment of the
catch member 190 includes anelongated plate 192 which is sized such that each end of theelongated plate 192 extends into and travels within a respective retractionassembly guide track 128 of theplunger frame 110. Extending from one side of theelongated plate 192 is acatch member anchor 194 withbarbs 196 or the like extending therefrom for retaining theelastic member 164. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, ashaft 198 extends from the opposite side of theelongated plate 192 and terminates in a geometrically configuredbarbed tip 200. Thetip 200 is configured to mate with and be retained by theretention assembly 120 of theplunger frame 110. - As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, another embodiment of the
catch member 105 has aguide 107 configured to travel in theguide track 128 between the connecting rods of theplunger frame 110. Thecatch member 105 has acatch tooth 109 situated on either side of thecatch member 105. Eachcatch tooth 109 engages with one of the retention teeth 103 (theretention teeth 103 are part of the retention assembly shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B) at a time. After one of theretention teeth 103 receives one of thecatch teeth 109, thecatch tooth 109 is inhibited from moving away from thefirst end 114 of the elongated frame portion. Accordingly, thecatch member 105 is retained by theretention teeth 103 of the retention assembly and theelastic member 164 is thereby held in tension on one end by the sealing platform and on the other end by thecatch member 105. - The
mandrel 170 and thecatch member 190 105 are preferably manufactured from the same material as theplunger frame 110. As such, these components can also be formed during the first shot of the multiple shot injection molding procedure used to form theplunger frame 110. - The
elastic member 164 extends between themandrel 170 and thecatch member 190 105. Theelastic member 164 is manufactured from a resilient material, which is preferably an elastomer, but which can be other materials, for example a stainless steel spring or the like. Theelastic member 164 is preferably manufactured from Kraton™. In the preferred method of manufacture described below, theelastic member 164 is formed between themandrel 170 and thecatch member 190 105 with a second injection, overmolding shot. Do to theelastic member 164 being directly overmolded over thebarbed anchors elastic member 164 secured to themandrel 170 and catchmember 190 105. It is contemplated that theelastic member 164, irrespective of the material from which it is manufactured, may also be manufactured separately and secured to themandrel 170 and catchmember 190 105. Since the sealingmember 150,thumb pad 104 and stop 184 are all also preferably manufactured from the same material as theelastic member 164, they are also preferably formed during the second injection, overmolding shot. - Having described the components of the preferred syringe8, its assembly and use will now be described with reference to FIGS. 12-19. The
needle assembly 70 is positioned in thesyringe barrel 40 with theneedle 72 extending through theaperture 48. - In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the
needle assembly 70 is inserted until the sealingring 76 seats in and is retained by the syringebody retaining groove 50. - In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 4A, the
needle assembly 70 with theneedle seal 77 is inserted into thetruncated cone 46 of thesyringe barrel 40 and is retained by the retainingfingers 51. When theneedle assembly 70 is being inserted into thetruncated cone 46, it contacts the retainingfingers 51. Further insertion of theneedle assembly 70 moves the retainingfingers 51 into the open position so that theneedle assembly 70 may pass through the opening defined by the retainingfingers 51. - When the
needle assembly 70 is inserted sufficiently into thetruncated cone 46, the retainingfingers 51 return to the closed position. The retainingfingers 51 are formed from an elastic material so that they return to the closed position if they are displaced from the closed position and no external forces are acting on the retainingfingers 51. If a force is applied tending to push theneedle assembly 70 out of thetruncated cone 46 toward the open end of thebarrel 40 when the retainingfingers 51 are in the closed position, theneedle assembly 70 will contact at least one of the retainingbarbs 67, and at least one of the retainingfingers 51 will resist that force. The orientation of the surface of thebarbs 67 in a substantially perpendicular relationship to the direction in which such a force would be applied decreases the component of the force that would act to spread thefingers 51 into the open position. - In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, the
needle seal 53 is inserted into thetruncated cone 46 through theaperture 48 rather than through the open end of thesyringe barrel 40. To insert theneedle seal 53 into thetruncated cone 46 through theaperture 48, the retainingarms 57 are moved into the open position and held in the open position so that theneedle seal 53 may pass through the opening defined by thearms 57. Once theneedle seal 53 is sufficiently inserted into thetruncated cone 46, thearms 57 are released and move toward the closed position. Thearms 57 are formed of an elastic material so that thearms 57 return to the closed position if they are displaced from the closed position and no external forces are acting on thearms 57. Once theneedle seal 53 is inserted into thetruncated cone 46 and thearms 57 return to the closed position, theneedle seal 53 is retained in thetruncated cone 46 by thearms 57. - The
needle assembly 70 may be inserted through theaperture 48 or through the open end of thebarrel 40. If theneedle assembly 70 is inserted through the open end of thebarrel 40, it is done in the same manner as described above in 22. connection with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A and 4A. Accordingly, theneedle assembly 70 contacts the retainingfingers 51 and pushes them into the open position. Once theneedle assembly 70 is sufficiently inserted, the retainingfingers 51 move into the closed position and retain theconical projection 74 of theneedle assembly 70. If theneedle assembly 70 is inserted through theaperture 48, it may be inserted in the same manner as, and at the same time as, theseal 53. If inserted through theaperture 48, the retainingfingers 51 need not move to the open position to accept theneedle assembly 70. - In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3, 3A,4, and 4A, the
cap member 10 may be mated with theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40 either before or after insertion of theneedle assembly 70. In the embodiments shown in FIG. 4B, thecap member 10 may be mated with theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40 after insertion of theneedle seal 53. - The
plunger assembly 100 is assembled by assembling theplunger frame 100, which already has thethumb pad 104 and sealingmember 150 positioned thereon, and theretraction assembly 160. As explained above, theelastic member 164 is preferably molded directly to themandrel 170 and catchmember 190 105, to form theretraction assembly 160. If not formed integrally, theelastic member 164 is secured to the mandrel and catch memberbarbed anchors - With the
retraction assembly 160 complete, themandrel 170 is inserted through thehollow shaft 140 passing through the plungerframe sealing end 130. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 10, themandrel 170 is inserted until themandrel retaining ring 178 is secured by the sealing end internalannular ring 142. Themandrel retaining ring 178 forms a fluid tight seal with theplunger sealing end 130 proximate thepressure cone seat 138, thereby sealing thehollow shaft 140. Theresilient stop 184 abuts against the rear surface of thesealing platform 132, thereby forming a fluid tight seal about that end of thehollow shaft 140. As the plunger assembly is withdrawn from thehollow body 42, a vacuum is created therein. The seal provided by theresilient stop 184 helps prevent air or other materials from be pulled past themandrel 170 into thesyringe body 42 by the internal vacuum force. - In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A and 10A, the
mandrel 170 is inserted to place themandrel seal 171 within thefirst end 141 of thehollow shaft 140. Themandrel seal 171 may abut apressure cone seat 138 or a lip (not shown) on thehollow shaft 140 that inhibits excessive insertion of themandrel 170. - With the
mandrel 170 in place, theplunger assembly 100 is ready to be inserted into thesyringe barrel 40 through theopen end 54. Theannular seals syringe barrel 40 as theplunger assembly 100 is inserted. Theplunger assembly 100 is inserted approximately half-way into thesyringe barrel 40 until thecatch member 190 105 abuts theshoulder 60, as shown in FIG. 12. The syringe 8 is ready for packaging and delivery. It should be noted that at this time theelastic member 164 is not tensioned. This helps increase the shelf life of the syringe 8 since theelastic member 164 is not under constant tension. If shelf life is not a concern, thecatch member 190 105 can be secured to theretention assembly 120 prior to packaging, whereby the syringe 8 would have a preloaded elastic member. - After removing the syringe assembly8 from the packaging, the operator can hold the syringe in a typical one hand manner, i.e. with two fingers abutting the
grip member 56 and the thumb on thethumb pad 104. The operator presses on thethumb pad 104 to depress theplunger assembly 100 into thesyringe barrel 40 with a substantially complete depression to expel air from the syringehollow body 42. This is similar to standard syringe operation. As theplunger assembly 100 is depressed, thecatch member 190 105 is retained by theshoulder 60 such that thecatch member 190 105 cannot travel forward. However, theplunger frame 110 continues its forward travel. Since thecatch member 190 105 is retained but theplunger frame 110 andsecured mandrel 170 continue forward, theelastic member 164 begins to stretch and tension. - As travel continues forward, the
catch element 200 109 of thecatch member 190 105 is received by theretention assembly 120. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the catch element is a geometrically configuredbarbed tip 200. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, the catch element is comprised ofcatch teeth 109 and the retention assembly is comprised ofretention teeth 103. As shown in FIG. 13 for the embodiment with abarbed tip 200, thecatch element 200 is secured by theretention assembly 120 of theplunger frame 110. Theelastic member 164 is thereby secured in a loaded condition between thesecured mandrel 170 and thesecured catch member 190 105. As thecatch element 200 109 andretention assembly 120 mate, an audible “click” may occur to provide a signal of proper mating to the operator. - Additionally, the syringe barrel
annular lip 62 adjacent thefirst end 114 of the plunger frame will discourage complete depression of theplunger assembly 100 as thecatch element 200 109 is received by theretention assembly 120. - With the
elastic member 164 loaded, the syringe 8 can be loaded in a typical fashion by removing thecap 10, inserting theneedle 42 into a desired vial or the like, and withdrawing theplunger assembly 100 to draw up a desired dose as shown in FIG. 14. Since theelastic member 164 is tensioned between two components secured to theplunger frame 110, withdrawal of theplunger assembly 100 will not trigger theelastic member 164. Instead, theplunger assembly 100 will operate as a standard syringe plunger. - Once any air has been purged from the
syringe barrel 40 in a known manner, the device 8 is ready for injection of theneedle 72 into the patient. As stated above, theelastic member 164 is tensioned between two fixed components, and therefore, is not acting to move theplunger assembly 100 in either direction. As such, the user does not have to maintain constant pressure on the plunger assembly, but is free to hold the syringe 8 in the traditional dart like fashion between their thumb and forefinger of one hand, and use the other hand to pinch the patient's skin at the point of insertion for subcutaneous injection, spread the skin for intramuscular injection, and stabilize the skin for IV injection. These methods of injection are the generally preferred methods in the medical field. - As the
needle 72 is inserted, a rearward force, indicated by the arrow A in FIG. 15, is applied against theneedle assembly 70. To resist this force, the needleassembly sealing ring 76 is secured within the retaininggroove 50 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Additionally, since the syringe barrel rim 47 about thetruncated cone 46 is convex, the rearward force causes the syringe barrel surface to urge inward, as indicated by arrows B, thereby creating a tighter retention force about theneedle assembly 70. Once the user has inserted theneedle 72 into the patient, the user injects the substance into the patient by depressing thethumb pad 104. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A, 4A, and 4B, the force applied against the needle assembly is resisted by the retainingfingers 51. - As shown in FIG. 16, upon substantial depression of the
plunger assembly 100, themandrel probe 176 begins to enter theneedle assembly cavity 80. At approximately the same time, the firstannular seal 152 meets and is deflected by theramps 52 adjacent theclosed end 44 of thesyringe barrel 40, thereby breaking the fluid tight seal. Any fluid trapped between theplunger sealing member 150 and theneedle assembly 70 is permitted to pass the deflectedannular seal 152 into the open space aroundnarrower portion 156. The secondannular seal 154 may remain in sealing engagement with thesyringe barrel 40 to prevent any unwanted inward or outward flow past the sealingmember 150. However, theannular seal 154 may include a small passage to let trapped air about thenarrower portion 156 escape. - The
mandrel probe 176 passes through the needle assembly cavitycylindrical portion 80 a into the geometrically configured cavityhemispherical socket 80 b whereby themandrel 170 is secured to theneedle assembly 70 as shown in FIG. 17. - At approximately the same time the
mandrel 170 andneedle assembly 70 attach, the retainingfingers 51 are moved into the open position by theplunger assembly 100 so that theneedle assembly 70 may pass through the opening defined by thefingers 51. A holding force exerted by thefingers 51 on theneedle assembly 70 is lower when thefingers 51 are in the open position than when thefingers 51 are in the closed position. The tension in the elastic member is sufficient to overcome any remaining holding force exerted by thefingers 51 on theneedle assembly 70. - Once the
mandrel 170 is secured to theneedle assembly 70 as shown in FIG. 17, themandrel probe 176 has moved as far into theneedle assembly 70 as possible, yet theplunger frame 110 has not completed its full stroke. As such, continued force on thethumb pad 104 will continue to move theplunger frame 110 forward. Since themandrel 170 position is fixed and theplunger frame 110 is being forced forward, the mandrel is pushed backward. - In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 10, the retaining
ring 178 will be forced inward past the plunger sealingend retaining ring 136, thereby releasing themandrel 170 as shown in FIG. 18. That is, themandrel retaining ring 178 moves behind the retainingring 136 as shown in phantom. - In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7A and 10A, as the needle user continues depressing the plunger, the plunger frame continues moving forward relative to the
mandrel 170, so that themandrel 170 is moved from a first position in the smaller-areafirst end 141 of thehollow shaft 140 to a second position in the larger-areasecond end 143 of thehollow shaft 140. - As the
mandrel 170 moves from the first position toward the second position, the holding force between thehollow shaft 140 and themandrel seal 171 is overcome and themandrel seal 171 slides against thehollow shaft 140. Themandrel seal 171 moves with themandrel 170 because the holding force between themandrel seal 171 and themandrel 170 is greater than the holding force between themandrel seal 171 and thehollow shaft 140. - Once the
mandrel seal 171 moves into the larger area of thesecond end 143 of thehollow shaft 140, themandrel seal 171 either expands away from themandrel 170 or remains engaged with themandrel 170. Theseal 171 would expand if it were compressed around themandrel 170 by thehollow shaft 140 during the assembly of the syringe. If theseal 171 expands, the area defined by an opening in the seal 171 (the inner seal area) preferably becomes large enough as theseal 171 moves from the first position to the second position, such that themandrel 170 may retract the needle through the inner seal area. - In any case, the
mandrel seal 171 no longer secures themandrel 170 to thehollow shaft 140 after themandrel seal 171 moves from the first position to the second position within thehollow shaft 140. - Since the
mandrel 170 is under the load of theelastic member 164 but no longer secured to thehollow shaft 140, the load of theelastic member 164 automatically retracts themandrel 170 into theplunger frame 110 between the connectingrods 126. Through the connection ofmandrel probe 176 and the geometrically configuredneedle assembly cavity 80, theneedle assembly 70 is also retracted into theplunger frame 110, as shown in FIG. 19. - In one embodiment, the tapered
pressure cone seat 138 on the sealing end of theplunger frame 110 contacts the convex, taperedrim 47 ofcone 46 and causes it to spread slightly. This reduces the retaining force ofcone 46 on theneedle assembly 70 to assist retraction of theneedle assembly 70. Furthermore, since the taperedrim 47 is convex, the forward fluid and plunger force, as indicated by arrow C in FIG. 18, urge the taperedrim 47 outward, as indicated by arrows D, further easing the retaining force and thereby reducing the requisite retraction force. This flexing preferably occurs simultaneously or slightly after themandrel probe 176 enters thehemispherical portion 80 a of theneedle assembly cavity 80. - Referring again to FIG. 19, as the
plunger assembly 100 completes its stroke, thethumb pad 104 enters theopen cavity 58 at the end of thesyringe barrel 40. In the preferred embodiment, thethumb pad 104 is manufactured from a resilient material which sealingly engages thesyringe barrel 40 wall, thereby closing theopen end 54 and preventing any inadvertent fluid flow out of thesyringe barrel 40. Additionally, since thethumb pad 104 enters and is recessed in theopen cavity 58, it makes it difficult for anyone to inadvertently or intentionally remove theplunger assembly 100 and expose the usedneedle 72. Thethumb pad 104 preferably has a semi-domed configuration which enhances its inaccessibility. Additionally, thethumb pad 104 is preferably inserted past the innerannular lip 62 and retained thereby, further enhancing inaccessibility. - The method of manufacture of one embodiment of the syringe will now be described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21. A first shot injection mold procedure is utilized to form the
plunger frame 110 components (thefirst end 114, the sealingend 130 and the connectingrods 126 extending therebetween), themandrel 170, and thecatch member 190 105 in a single shot of the desired material, in the preferred embodiment, polypropylene. The resultant component is shown in FIG. 20. Themandrel 170 and thecatch member 190 105 are maintained in position relative to one another and theplunger frame 110 byrunners 210 extending from thecomponents rods 126. The formedplunger frame 110,mandrel 170 and catchmember 190 105 are then positioned in a second mold cavity. Using a second injection, overmold shot of the desired material, in the preferred embodiment, Kraton™, theelastic member 164, stop 184, sealingmember 150 andthumb pad 104 are formed directly over the corresponding parts of theplunger frame 110,mandrel 170 and catchmember 190 105 as shown in FIG. 21. After theplunger assembly 100 is removed from the second mold, therunners 210 are trimmed off themandrel 170 and connectingrods 126, thereby freeing themandrel 170. Themandrel 170 is then pushed through the plunger sealing endhollow shaft 140 until it is retained in position by the interaction of themandrel retaining ring 178 and the plunger sealingend retaining ring 136. After themandrel 170 is secured, therunners 210 can be trimmed between thecatch member 190 105 and the connectingrods 126. While it is possible to trim all of therunners 210 at the same time, it is preferable to maintain therunners 210 supporting thecatch member 190 105 to avoid excessive movement of theretraction assembly 160 during insertion of themandrel 170. Once themandrel 170 is inserted and therunners 210 are trimmed, theplunger assembly 100 is ready for use in accordance with the above. - This method of overmolding a resilient, elastomeric material about a frame assembly is also contemplated for use in forming various other medical and non-medical articles. With respect to medical articles, retractable blood collection devices, automated lancets, syringes with tensioned or tensionable elastomeric inner or outer sheaths, and butterfly devices are among the articles considered.
- While the present invention has been described in terms of the preferred embodiments, other variations which are within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Claims (54)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/345,901 US7044931B2 (en) | 2000-12-13 | 2003-01-16 | Syringe with retractable needle assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2000/033897 WO2001041830A2 (en) | 1999-12-13 | 2000-12-13 | Syringe with retractable needle assembly |
US10/345,901 US7044931B2 (en) | 2000-12-13 | 2003-01-16 | Syringe with retractable needle assembly |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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PCT/US2000/033897 Continuation WO2001041830A2 (en) | 1999-12-13 | 2000-12-13 | Syringe with retractable needle assembly |
Publications (2)
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US20040006314A1 true US20040006314A1 (en) | 2004-01-08 |
US7044931B2 US7044931B2 (en) | 2006-05-16 |
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US10/345,901 Expired - Fee Related US7044931B2 (en) | 2000-12-13 | 2003-01-16 | Syringe with retractable needle assembly |
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US (1) | US7044931B2 (en) |
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US20070219508A1 (en) * | 2006-03-15 | 2007-09-20 | Medrad, Inc. | Plunger Covers and Plungers for Use in Syringes and Methods of Fabricating Plunger Covers and Plungers for Use in Syringes |
WO2014135985A3 (en) * | 2013-03-08 | 2015-04-09 | Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
US20150148749A1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2015-05-28 | Robert J. Cohn | Syringe assembly with automatic safety shield |
US9480797B1 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2016-11-01 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System and method for syringe plunger engagement with an injector |
US20170028135A1 (en) * | 2014-04-14 | 2017-02-02 | Swedish Orphan Biovitrum Ab (Publ) | Syringe plunger rod |
US9694131B2 (en) | 2003-11-25 | 2017-07-04 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Medical injector system |
US9744305B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2017-08-29 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Quick release plunger |
US9827374B2 (en) | 2013-03-08 | 2017-11-28 | Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
US9844622B2 (en) | 2000-07-10 | 2017-12-19 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringes for medical injector systems |
EA028936B1 (en) * | 2013-03-08 | 2018-01-31 | Тева Фармасьютикал Индастриз Лимитед | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
USD847985S1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger cover |
US10806852B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2020-10-20 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System for syringe engagement to an injector |
USD942005S1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2022-01-25 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Orange syringe plunger cover |
USD1002840S1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2023-10-24 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger |
US11883636B2 (en) | 2018-02-27 | 2024-01-30 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger engagement mechanism |
US11969582B2 (en) | 2022-06-02 | 2024-04-30 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger with dynamic seal |
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US7393343B2 (en) * | 2002-07-02 | 2008-07-01 | Hypoguard Usa Inc. | Retractable hypodermic syringe |
US9380975B2 (en) * | 2004-05-07 | 2016-07-05 | Becton, Dickinson And Company | Contact activated lancet device |
EP2491971A1 (en) * | 2011-02-23 | 2012-08-29 | Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH | Needle adapter |
US20170106149A1 (en) * | 2014-03-24 | 2017-04-20 | Medimmune, Llc | Single-Use, Self Destructing Shield for Syringe Needle |
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US9694131B2 (en) | 2003-11-25 | 2017-07-04 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Medical injector system |
US10434249B2 (en) | 2003-11-25 | 2019-10-08 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Medical injector system |
US9855390B2 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2018-01-02 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Plunger covers and plungers for use in syringes |
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USD847985S1 (en) | 2007-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger cover |
US9623193B2 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2017-04-18 | Robert J. Cohn | Syringe assembly with automatic safety shield |
US20150148749A1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2015-05-28 | Robert J. Cohn | Syringe assembly with automatic safety shield |
US10286152B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2019-05-14 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Quick release plunger |
US9744305B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2017-08-29 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Quick release plunger |
EA028936B1 (en) * | 2013-03-08 | 2018-01-31 | Тева Фармасьютикал Индастриз Лимитед | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
US10071206B2 (en) | 2013-03-08 | 2018-09-11 | Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
US9827374B2 (en) | 2013-03-08 | 2017-11-28 | Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
WO2014135985A3 (en) * | 2013-03-08 | 2015-04-09 | Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited | Re-useable injector device for syringe |
US11383029B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2022-07-12 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System for syringe engagement to an injector |
US11103637B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2021-08-31 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System for syringe engagement to an injector |
US10806852B2 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2020-10-20 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System for syringe engagement to an injector |
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US9480797B1 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2016-11-01 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System and method for syringe plunger engagement with an injector |
US11547794B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2023-01-10 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System and method for syringe plunger engagement with an injector |
US10512721B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2019-12-24 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | System and method for syringe plunger engagement with an injector |
US11883636B2 (en) | 2018-02-27 | 2024-01-30 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger engagement mechanism |
US11969582B2 (en) | 2022-06-02 | 2024-04-30 | Bayer Healthcare Llc | Syringe plunger with dynamic seal |
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FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20140516 |